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The Candide Invitational, created by iconic French freestyle skier Candide Thovex, was a groundbreaking event that pushed the limits of park skiing and redefined what was possible on snow. Hosted at La Clusaz in the French Alps, the Invitational drew elite skiers and snowboarders from around the globe to take on some of the most creative and daunting terrain features ever built.
One of the most legendary elements of the event was “Big Bertha,” a colossal step-down jump that stretched approximately 45 meters (about 148 feet) in length and soared 14 meters (46 feet) high. This massive feature quickly became emblematic of the event’s daring spirit. In 2007, Thovex himself suffered a major crash on Big Bertha, fracturing a vertebra—a stark reminder of the inherent risks in progressing the sport.
Despite the dangers, the Candide Invitational became a mecca for progression. Each year, it introduced wildly innovative features: a 35-meter gap jump, a castle-shaped quarterpipe, and even a full loop—an element rarely attempted in skiing. These obstacles challenged athletes to invent new tricks and styles, playing a pivotal role in shaping modern freestyle skiing.
The event’s influence extended well beyond the slopes, with media coverage and viral videos helping to inspire an entire generation of skiers. The Candide Invitational wasn’t just a contest—it was a statement about creativity, bravery, and the relentless pursuit of progression.